Business Day HomeFront 08 November 2019 by The Creative Group

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• Short-term letting and pet friendly

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13 OCTOBER 2016 WWW.BDLIVE.CO.ZA 8 NOVEMBER 2019 WWW.BUSINESSLIVE.CO.ZA

MUST-READ

Joburg hotel’s design revamp PAGE 2

Winning West Coast estates PAGE 10

Luxury retirement in Century City PAGE 14

The Cedar, Horizon Capital's new sectional title development in Oranjezicht, Cape Town

Why would I buy? Soweto: the new millennial go-to

The sectional title sector is experiencing buyer momentum, but savvy investors are asking these smart questions before they sign PAGE 6

PAGE 14

Special property investment focus Look out for the November 22 edition of HomeFront

HOMEFRONT

DESIGN AND FOOD

Meshed metamorphosis A villa and a restaurant at The Peech hotel are the final steps in a bold new architectural direction WORDS: KIM MAXWELL :: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

he Peech boutique hotel has been a landmark in Melrose, Johannesburg, since 2004. A year ago, 14 new luxury eco-chic rooms were added to the property. The refurbishment continued with a twobedroom luxury villa that opened in July, pushing design boundaries and delivering a new experiential type of hotel stay. “It took us seven years to persuade the neighbours to sell us the adjacent property to develop the villa and new rooms,” says co-owner Vicky Peech. The stellar creative team included architect Catherine de Souza of Meshworks and interior designers Aparna Ramani and Taryn Kallie of Design Republic. Landscaper Deirdre Causton of Inspirations Garden Design refreshed the garden spaces. Design Republic worked with Vicky’s husband, James Peech, to execute his vision of creating “Joburg’s most inspiring place to stay”. Their creative input is also evident in the new interiors of the restaurant Basalt, which opened in September.

THE VILLA The villa personifies The Peech design brief: to create functional luxury for multigenerational

traveller groups, highlighting the expansive gardens, promoting local design and providing a tranquil oasis in a busy African city. Ideal for four adults or a family of five, the two en suite bedrooms, a living area and a covered patio with a pergola and a fishpond form a modern cocoon of privacy and relaxation. There is a butler service. “Using local artisanal designers was important to us,” says Vicky. “Too many hotels have interiors with a French or international feel. As a guest, how would you even know you’re staying in Joburg or SA?” Design Republic has done a great job sourcing local talent: the Carver bench on the terrace is by Houtlander, who also made the bedside tables. Dark Horse’s custom steel and leather ottomans stand at the foot of each bed, and the wardrobes are by Stripped Collective. The steel screens above the beds were a collaboration between Gina Waldman and Deborah Weber of W-Square, and residents at the women’s shelter Bethany Home were commissioned to weave visual elements by hand. In the bathrooms are Dokter & Misses “Kooky” hooks, the hand-stitched leather headboards are by Design Republic, and the throws on the beds are from

HOMEFRONT African Jacquard. Audrey Potter’s collection of archival prints of maps and flora and fauna bring South African relevance to the walls. Ramani says the toneddown palette and soft layering was partly inspired by the gardens of the city’s “man-made forest”. The contrast between natural wood and urban structural elements such as glass and steel is intentional. “Guests should feel secure and comfortable in their rooms, while being able to open their sliding doors and engage with nature,” says James. The villa’s exterior steelwork has lovely star jasmine creepers winding their tendrils up the meshlike frames. “We wanted people to enjoy the gardens because that’s what makes Joburg special,” Vicky says.

BASALT RESTAURANT

The Peech Hotel won the ArcelorMittal South Africa Architectural category at the 2019 SAISC Steel Awards. Architect Catherine de Souza, principal of Meshworks, explains the innovative use of steel cladding:

In the original heritage house overlooking the hotel entrance, Basalt’s contemporary grey interior is energised by plush red velvet chairs. Banquette seating in olive-green reconstituted eco-leather runs the length of one wall. Custom kiaat and steel dining tables by Charles Theron are offset by reclaimed parquet floors. Dark Horse created the leather and steel barstools, and Stripped Collective

Meshworks designed the new rooms at The Peech hotel as private pavilions “floating in the garden”, sensitively integrated with the landscape.

fashioned the bar display unit in steel and wood. “The Peech has always had an inhouse restaurant, but we opened Basalt to offer a slightly more sophisticated dinner option that is open to the public,” says Vicky. Frederico Dias, former head chef at The Pot Luck Club in Cape Town, runs both eateries. His focus is on “contemporary global cuisine”, using clean flavours and harmonising key ingredients. Lighter options include tuna tataki with habanero salsa and a “10-a-day” vegetable risotto livened by crispy kale and kohlrabi. For mains, consider the Mexican-inspired pork belly with almond mole, the duck breast with miso-glazed bok choi or the pan-roasted fish with cauliflower, lime and curry leaf butter. The sweet citrus burst is a refreshing fruit-based dessert. The name Basalt refers to hardened volcanic rock and conjures a sense of robustness. The link to nature is a common thread at the Peech. “We’re not about glitz and glam; we’re down to earth,” concludes Vicky. “But we still want to be able to dress up and have a really amazing food and wine experience. This is a restaurant for date night or a special treat to break the routine.” thepeech.co.za

The planted steel mesh of the wraparound balconies was an important element in the kit used to craft the articulated façades of an urban village. With the expressed steel framework of the buildings, it creates a play of layers, materials, light and shadows. The mesh provides a contrast with the impermeability of the masonry surfaces and delivers a changing organic screening device. The steelwork allows guests to experience and control various degrees of visual permeability into and out of the accommodation units and their zones. This layering means balconies can become private outdoor courtyards, allowing guests to sleep with their sliding doors open, and various thresholds reveal different spaces. Lastly, because of its planted nature and the way it could direct and orientate each unit, the cladding becomes a tool in the integration of the built form with the landscape, significantly contributing to the “garden urbanity”.

"We're down to earth, but we still want to be able to dress up and have a really amazing food and wine experience" Vicky Peech, co-owner, The Peech

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EDITORIAL TEAM Editor: Debbie Loots Designer: Samantha Durand

PUBLICATION ADVERTISING SALES

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Susan Erwee

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083 556 9848

FOCUS ON: ONE ON WHITELEY, MELROSE ARCH

The luxury residential apartments are built around a private courtyard with an outdoor heated swimming pool

W One of a kind ADVERTORIAL

Introducing One on Whiteley, a prestigious new residential development in the awardwinning Melrose Arch mixed-use precinct WORDS AND PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

hat would you like to come home to? Safety and security? Comfort and convenience? Perhaps it’s important to you to be connected – both to technology and to people? Or maybe it’s location that you value above all else? What would you say to the offer of having it all? That’s right. You could come home to all of this and more. That’s what an apartment at One on Whiteley gives you. This latest luxury residential offering by the Amdec Group, SA’s foremost developers of New Urban lifestyles, is located within the popular Melrose Arch mixed-use precinct, where you can enjoy a superb lifestyle and unsurpassed quality of life.

WHY MELROSE ARCH? One on Whiteley occupies

a prime position within the broader Melrose Arch precinct. This means all your daily needs can be met within walking distance. You can also draw on the considerable resources at the disposal of this expertly run and professionally managed precinct. In terms of safety and security, your peace of mind is ensured thanks to the existing infrastructure in the precinct, including everything from a stateof-the-art centralised control centre, CCTV, foot patrols and extensive use of panic buttons in public areas, to emergency medical assistance.

DEVELOPER BACKING If you purchase property from us, you get a commitment that is seldom replicated elsewhere. As developers, the Amdec Group is known for not relinquishing

INVESTMENT PROSPECTS Melrose Arch sets the gold standard for mixed-use developments. Residential apartments within this exclusive precinct are consistently in high demand, generating rental returns and capital growth that are among the highest in the city. The late and limited release of completed apartments means you can still invest and reap the rewards associated with an exceptional opportunity. The plush lift lobby at One on Whiteley gives you an indication of the quality of this world-class development

Daytona is SA’s premium luxury and supercar supplier

FOCUS ON: ONE ON WHITELEY, MELROSE ARCH

The apartments at One on Whiteley open onto the beautifully landscaped private courtyard our involvement upon completion of the construction phases of our projects – we remain involved hands-on in the daily running of all our developments. This means everything is taken care of, and we do everything within our power to safeguard your investment and ours. We believe in partnering as much with our purchasers as we do with our collaborators in business, because together we build places where people can live happy and healthy lives, work productively, and relax and enjoy their leisure time. This is ultimately what matters most, and you should expect nothing less from us.

WHY ONE ON WHITELEY? One on Whiteley comprises 241 luxury residential apartments on eight floors, built around a beautifully

landscaped private courtyard. There is a heated outdoor swimming pool, a sun deck and quiet areas where you can pause and catch your breath after a busy day. Only a few studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments are still available for sale, priced from R2.1m. Come visit our show unit for a first-hand experience of the One on Whiteley lifestyle – our sales consultants would be delighted to show you around. This is an opportunity to buy into a development of true quality, built to the highest international standards. These new upmarket apartments are designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. The layouts have all been designed to maximise space and create flow between various living areas. With large windows fronting onto the courtyard, the

Only a few apartments are still available for sale, priced from R2.1m

units feel open and airy. They are all exceptionally well appointed, so you can expect refined modern finishes and integrated Smeg appliances. You can also count on outstanding on-site resources that ensure the safe and smooth running of the development, such as secure basement parking, full backup generator power, on-site water storage tanks, the latest biometric access control and centrally monitored CCTV. As you can see, safety and security is our top priority.

one-of-a-kind imports, Daytona has gone from strength to strength since moving to One on Whiteley at Melrose Arch. The coffee shop inside its showroom is a great place to meet up with friends or connect with business associates. A five-star Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments will open in March 2020. A first for Johannesburg, this offering from the world’s largest hospitality chain will add to the already stellar line-up of hotels at Melrose Arch.

GOOD NEIGHBOURS

Melrose Arch is known for the stylish, dynamic and charismatic people who spend time here – many of them regulars and repeat visitors who consider this one of their favourite places to see and be seen. The layout, scale and design of the precinct, along with the fact that so many

Owning an apartment at One on Whiteley even comes with great neighbours. The Daytona showroom on the ground floor houses some of the most jaw-dropping supercars on display anywhere in the world. With record prices and

COMMUNITY

people live and work here, and many more come here to relax, mean that it’s a place where people truly connect. The precinct is fully walkable, so it’s easy to get around on foot and likely you’ll bump into someone you know or get to know someone you don’t. Residents will be able to live a healthy, balanced lifestyle because it’s easy to get out and about, be active and counter that sedentary lifestyle that plagues so many of us. The Amdec Group has a track record that spans 30 years. It has built an enviable reputation for developing properties where happy communities form, and Melrose Arch brings this philosophy to life. One on Whiteley would not look out of place in any of the world’s great cities. It does justice to the vibrant, cosmopolitan city of Johannesburg.

Expect refined modern finishes and spacious interiors

VITAL STATS

241 Parking bays: 960 Hotel rooms: 390 Apartments:

(coming March 2020)

CONTACT US TO COME AND VIEW Sales consultant Tersia Taljaard is awaiting your call. Get in touch with her to arrange a viewing and to discuss the opportunities to live or invest at One on Whiteley. Don’t miss out. Tersia Taljaard 063 695 7571 tersiat@amdec.co.za

oneonwhiteley.co.za

HOMEFRONT SECTIONAL TITLE

Why would I buy? The sectional title sector is experiencing buyer momentum, but savvy investors are asking these smart questions before they sign WORDS: KIM MAXWELL :: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Greenpark in Boksburg, by Balwin Properties

Ambassador, a Jawitz Properties development in Sea Point, Cape Town

ry these statistics for size: sectional schemes account for R830bn of sales in SA’s residential property market. In 2019, more than 38,000 sectional scheme units to the value of R41,9bn were sold. Of 778,711 registered units within sectional schemes, Gauteng leads the way with the most sectional scheme units sold, both in volume and value. KwaZulu-Natal pips the Western Cape to the post when it comes to the number of sectional scheme units sold, but those properties have substantially lower values than the ones achieved in the Cape. Asked to pinpoint any residential categories proving popular with residential buyers, Buyisile Maseko, growth head of

the Gold sub-segment at FNB Home Finance, says increasing demand for safety and security means that sectional title purchases in secure estates are rising in popularity. “This is also evident in the number of new developments in the form of sectional titles being built,” he adds. BetterBond’s latest figures show that 44% of bonds granted in the past year (to end September) fell into the R500,000 to R1m category. Another 19% of bonds granted were in the R1m to R1,5m bracket. A sectional title home is often more affordable than a full title option, but every potential investment requires careful appraisal. HomeFront put these questions to property developers and agents:

Why is sectional title a good investment during a downturn? “Estate living is a fast growing lifestyle option among buyers on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast,” says Lazuli Lifestyle & Retirement Estate spokesperson Kevin Fisher. “More specifically, apartments on estates offer an attractive price point to enter this market and enjoy the facilities, security and amenities. Building maintenance and insurance costs are covered in monthly levies, keeping unforeseen expenses in check.” Lazuli recently launched 36 sectional title Sentinel Hill Apartments on the over-50s estate. Offering basement parking, a lift service, luxury finishes and sea views, they’re priced from R1.795m

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(including VAT) in one- to three-bedroom options. Horizon Capital MD David Sedgwick says The Cedar, its latest development in Oranjezicht, Cape Town, offers a “unique opportunity to purchase a high-end apartment in one of the city’s established suburbs that rarely sees new developments”. Launched last month, the units are ideal for owneroccupiers and investors alike, he says. “Lately we’ve noted an increase in market activity again, and with completion only scheduled for late 2021, purchasers can benefit from any upwards movement in prices.” A onebedroom unit with parking and a Jacuzzi is priced from R2.495m (including VAT). Cape Town urban residential developer Blok’s offering at Forty on L on the slopes of Signal Hill ranges from studio apartments to spacious penthouses. Prices start from R1.9m, including VAT. During a downturn, Blok MD Jacques van Embden says buyers should look for reputable developers that have a solid track record. “You want to be conscious of quality and thoughtful design. Properties close to the city centre and those that promote community living will retain their value and deliver excellent yields.”

Does sectional title currently offer value? “You can still get value for your money in this market and we’re seeing some good buys out there. With rentals so high on the Atlantic Seaboard, buyers are realising that, in some cases, buying a property makes more financial sense than renting,” says Jawitz Properties Atlantic Seaboard consultant Juan Basson. “If they buy a smaller apartment in an older block with reasonable levies, they can end up paying the same for a bond as they would for a monthly rental.” Sectional title properties priced at R4.5m or less are seen as the “more affordable” part of the long-overpriced Atlantic Seaboard residential property market, Basson

Sentinel Hill Apartments at Lazuli Lifestyle & Retirement Estate on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast

THE FIVE SECTIONAL SCHEMES THAT HAD THE MOST SALES IN 2019

“One- and two-bedroom apartment options offer good investment prospects”

1. The Whisken in Kyalami, Gauteng: 331 transactions 2. The Reid in Limbro Park, Gauteng: 231 transactions

Kevin Fisher, spokesperson, Lazuli Lifestyle & Retirement Estate

3. The Jade in Somerset West, Western Cape: 169 transactions 4. Sneeuberg Place in Eldorado Park, Gauteng: 141 transactions 5. Belhar Vista in Bellville, Western Cape: 128 transactions Source: Lightstone Property The Cedar by Horizon Capital in Cape Town's Oranjezicht

Blok's Forty On L in the Bo-Kaap

The clubhouse at Cederberg Estate in Kuils River, Cape Town

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SA’S TOP THREE SECTIONAL SPOTS FOR BALWIN The Whisken in Kyalami epitomises secure modern living and residents have access to lifestyle centre leisure facilities within landscaped surrounds. Apartments have Scandinavian-styled kitchens including ecofriendly appliances, plus an outdoor balcony or patio. Prepaid electricity and water meters are standard. Units were selling from R1.4m for a two-bedroom, twobathroom unit but current development phases are sold out.

Balwin's The Whisken in Kyalami

The Reid in Limbro Park, Sandton, offers urban estate living surrounded by natural beauty. Wi-Fi ready one- to three-bedroom apartments include ecofriendly appliances, solar-supplemented prepaid electricity and water meters. An on-site lifestyle centre offers leisure and sport facilities. Prices start from R709,900 for a one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit.

“Greenpark Estate is the first of Balwin's greener developments, with eco-conscious features that save operational utility costs” Lisa Sinclair, PR manager, Balwin Properties

The Jade in Paardevlei Precinct in Somerset West has historic Herbert Baker and Francis Massey architecture. This secure estate is one of Balwin’s first solar developments. Pet-friendly and within walking distance of Strand beach, the estate has a superb lifestyle centre. Units include appliances, and prepaid electricity and water meters are standard. A one-bed and one-bath unit starts from R989,900.

says, and draw first-time buyers (now qualifying for bonds thanks to more lenient lending criteria from banks) and buy-to-let investors.

Lower-priced properties often attract more buyers and tenants. Are the market trends changing? “Balwin doesn’t only do luxury high-end sectional title developments,” says Balwin Properties PR manager Lisa Sinclair. She singles out modern Greenpark Estate sectional title apartments in Boksburg as appealing to a thriftier investor. A one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit here starts at R609,900. “Greenpark Estate is the first of our greener developments with ecoconscious features that save operational utility costs.

These apartments also offer great value for money at a more affordable price,” she says. “Buyers of these beautifully designed one- to three-bedroom apartments have access to the lifestyle centre with an outdoor gym, a pool, a laundromat and a restaurant.” Balwin’s development ties in with the 2020 residential trends highlighted by FNB Home Finance. “Ecofriendly housing is proving popular,” says Maseko. “Consumers are always looking at ways to cut costs where they can, especially when it comes to household water and electricity use.” In Cape Town’s Northern suburbs, V Spaces launched a value-focused sectional title development to meet market needs. Cederberg Estate sits on the urban edge of Kuils River. “It is designed to assist qualifying

first-time buyers onto the property ladder,” says V Spaces spokesperson Craig Myburgh. A total of 192 sectional title apartments will be located next to Mooiberge Estate on Bottelary Road. With studios starting from R650,000, including transfer, the developer aims to address the area’s shortage of affordable residential developments close to work, schools and transport nodes.

What sort of rental returns can buy-tolet investors expect? Location is still key to achieving great rentals. As could be expected, the V&A Waterfront usually has high demand for shortterm holiday and business lets from international clientele. “This means a property investment within the Waterfront works for

the owner when they are not in residence,” says Dogon Group Properties V&A Waterfront specialist Natacha Neuburger. Rental enquiries have dropped slightly, she reports, but there is equal demand for oneand two-bedroom units. “Holiday makers are prepared to pay peak-season rates and book up to a year ahead to secure the perfect property for their yearly vacation,” says Dogon rentals manager Odette Maartens. “Winter is also popular with international guests, as prices are lower and typically no minimum stay is required.” A secure live/work/play concept in an urban location ensures good rentals too. At newly completed One on Whiteley in Johannesburg’s mixed-use Melrose Arch precinct, rentals start from R14,000 a month

for unfurnished studios to R40,000 for three-bedroom units. “We’ve seen demand from both investors and buy-to-live purchasers,” says Pam Golding Properties Melrose Arch sales/rentals specialist Danie Griffith.

And what about capital growth? “The Waterfront has had an increase in capital growth averaging 7% to 8% over the past decade. There has been a drop in achieved prices in the past year of about 10%,” says Dogon Group Properties V&A Waterfront specialist Karen Rubin. A one-bedroom apartment in Juliette, one of the newest blocks overlooking the V&A marina, recently sold for R6m. Van Embden says a net yield of about 9% on a studio and 7% on a one- or two-bedroom unit can be expected at Blok’s Forty on L.

Sedgwick is a little more pragmatic. “In our view one can expect somewhat muted capital growth over the next one to two years,” he says of prospects at The Cedar. “However, given the unique opportunity to purchase in a boutique block in a prime location, you need to take a longer-term view.” “One- and two-bedroom apartment options offer good investment prospects,” advises Fisher in reference to KwaZulu-Natal’s Port Zimbali. “Getting in early and buying direct from the developer at launch offers the best return on investment. With no transfer duty and the capital appreciation of the investment accumulating before final transfer and handover, it offers the investor the opportunity either to sell or find a tenant for the apartment.”

E PL

M CO TI O N 3

Q 20 21

HELLO TABLE MOUNTAIN NEW DEVELOPMENT FOR SALE STARTING FROM R2.495 MILLION

WELCOME TO A CONNECTED WORLD WITH INCREDIBLE VIEWS IN ORANJEZICHT CAPE TOWN

KEY FEATURES: • 15 apartments • 3 exclusive penthouse apartments • Panoramic Table Mountain views • Communal landscaped terrace with jacuzzi • 5 minutes drive to Camps Bay and Clifton • Short-term letting and pet friendly

www.TheCedar.CapeTown

Ofﬁce - 021 425 8586 Maxine - 078 452 5559 Catherine - 074 384 3127

CO NSCIO US LIVING

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HOT SPOT

West Coast winners The West Coast region is the newest sought-after residential area for people seeking improved quality of life outside the city WORDS: DEBBIE HATHWAY :: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Shark Bay near Langebaan, by Pam Golding Properties

he faster life gets, the more people want to slow down. There’s no controlling the speed of progress in the world around us, but we can control our response to it. Many find solace in nature. What is crucial is getting access to it. Developers are playing a vital role, finding land where natural assets can be maximised as integral lifestyle features in ultimately self-sufficient neighbourhoods in urban and outlying areas. Their efforts are paying off. “The Western Seaboard is one of the fastest growing residential areas,” says Emarie Campbell, Pam Golding Properties area principal for the Western Seaboard. “We are also seeing upgrades to Tijgerhof and Sanddrift, between Century City and Milnerton. These areas are appealing, particularly to entry-level buyers, as you can get a home near major arterial routes for about R1.8m. “Along the West Coast, estate living is in demand because of the secure lifestyle it provides,” Campbell says. “Lock-upand-go convenience in a sectional title unit or a home on a smaller erf is also popular. Many businesses and offices are based along the West Coast, which reduces the need to travel to the city centre.”

Residential growth hot spots further on towards Tableview include Parklands, Sunningdale and Sandown. Milnerton Estates launched Sandown as a new suburb in 2014. Intended as a middle- to higher-income residential environment, it is attracting both homeowners and investors with lifestyle and security in mind. The aptly named Fynbos by Balwin Properties is one of the stars in this area. An ecofriendly lifestyle estate designed for the modern family, it is on the MyCiti Bus route, 21km from the CBD and close to Big Bay and top private schools. These one-, two- and threebedroom apartments are fibre-ready and have solarsupplemented electricity and built-in kitchen appliances. The lifestyle centre at Fynbos offers a concierge service, a laundromat, a Training Science gym with a trainer, an outdoor fitness area and a squash court. Pioneer Valley, the first residential estate in nearby Rivergate, is being developed by Imvula Estates and Milnerton Estates in three phases of 536 homes in total. Aimed at helping qualifying first-time buyers onto the property ladder through government’s Flisp home loan subsidy, it is selling fast. In Parklands, land made available since 1997 for the township development under the Milnerton Estates/Aska

“Along the West Coast, estate living is in demand because of the secure lifestyle it provides. Lock-up-and-go convenience in a sectional title unit or a home on a smaller erf is also popular” Emarie Campbell, area principal for the Western Seaboard, Pam Golding Properties

Property Group Joint Venture is now sold and about 12,500 houses and apartments have been built. “The topstructure developers are currently completing their developments here,” says Aska Property Group joint MD Tony Clarke. Also of major significance to the area is the dualling of Sandown Road and Malibongwe Drive up to the Potsdam interchange. This project is being undertaken by the City of Cape Town in partnership with Milnerton Estates, Aska and Garden Cities to alleviate congestion and improve traffic flow along Sandown Road.

Devmark Property Group’s Langebaan Manor Retirement & Lifestyle Estate

“It connects the R27 West Coast freeway to the N7 to Namibia and is scheduled for completion early in 2020,” Clarke says.

GREEN SPACE Century City and Burgundy Estate are prominent precincts 10km to 15km outside Cape Town. Bordering the vineyards of De Grendel wine farm, Burgundy Estate incorporates a mashie golf course, three schools, a shopping centre, restaurants, pocket parks and a green corridor. Since getting involved as a joint venture partner with Nedbank four

HOMEFRONT

Table Bay Suites, a Greeff Christie’s International Real Estate development in Milnerton

“Peace, fresh air, space and a slower pace are very covetable. Many people recognise that a move to the countryside is a move in the right direction” Riaan Roos, CEO, Multi Spectrum Property

Shark Bay borders the West Coast National Park

years ago, Rabie Property Group has sold more than 900 homes here, totalling more than R1.2bn. A few two-bedroom apartments priced from R1.32m are still available in newly completed Hazelwood. This development has a clubhouse and a swimming pool. Next up is Oasis Life, a retirement component launching on November 21. “With a central location and an established, multigenerational estate, we offer senior residents great value. We provide security of residence through our life rights model and our core focus is an excellent lifestyle,” says Rabie director Miguel Rodrigues. In Century City, the concept behind Bridgewater One is a contemporary interpretation of the

The Rabie Property Group development Bridgewater One in Century City

The lifestyle centre at Rabie Property Group’s Century City elegant, narrow canal-edge housing in Amsterdam. It will comprise a residential component, an 80-bed luxury hotel, several commercial offerings and limited retail. “With the redevelopment of Ratanga Junction, our vision was to enlarge the water body and retain as much of the original vegetation as possible,” says fellow Rabie director John Chapman. “We’re adding at least 1.64ha of water, which will allow canoeists and paddlers to cross the entire precinct via the canals. By creating a large public green space, we’ll welcome families back to the area to enjoy the birdlife and find solace in nature.” Bridgewater One’s residential component includes studios from R1.33m, one- and twobedroom apartments from R1.87m and R2.89m respectively, and penthouses with up to three bedrooms from R3.05m. No transfer duty is payable. Also launching this month is Oasis Life Century City. Phase 1 will comprise 62 luxury one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 81m2 to 165m2, with construction starting in 2020. Each unit will have a north-facing balcony, partly screened for privacy and wind protection. “With our life rights model, this fantastic lifestyle is secure for the remainder of a resident’s life,” says Chapman. “The entry age is 60, so an active and healthy lifestyle is promoted, which appeals to young seniors with a zest for life.” For those who want to be closer to the ocean, the area from Milnerton to Sunningdale holds appeal, offering proximity to Blouberg’s beaches at prices ranging from about R1.2m to R3m. “The Western Seaboard has shrugged off its sleepy reputation and is attracting an increasing number of younger families

thanks to its charm and excellent quality of life,” says Dean Gabriels, Greeff Christie’s International Real Estate senior broker for Cape Town City Bowl, Atlantic Seaboard and Western Seaboard. The area also has ample healthcare facilities, schools and shopping and entertainment options. Upper-end estates and areas such as Atlantic Beach and Sunset Beach reach prices of up to R15m, according to Gabriels. “Sectional title developments along the Western Seaboard have seen tremendous growth in value over the past five years. The latest is Table Bay Suites, comprising 60 luxury apartments with views of Table Bay, Table Mountain and Robben Island. It is set for completion by the spring of 2020.”

BACK TO NATURE A 90-minute drive from Cape Town, Langebaan is gaining popularity among those looking for a safe, laidback lifestyle. With good schools, value for money, fantastic amenities and top-class beaches, the lagoon town is a sought-after investment area for young families and retirees. “Langebaan still has that small-town charm – it is key to its success. You can feel a sense of freedom here that you don’t get in the cities. Life is peaceful,” says Langebaan Country Estate developer and CEO Craig Scott. This estate, on the outskirts of the town, incorporates a retirement village in an environment renowned for its indigenous wildlife, prolific birdlife and renosterveld vegetation. Closer to the lagoon, residents at Langebaan Manor Retirement & Lifestyle Estate by Devmark Property Group enjoy the moderate climate, a host of outdoor activities and the nearby West Coast National Park. The Life West Coast

Private Hospital is located in nearby Vredenburg. Shark Bay is a new eco estate near the entrance of the West Coast National Park. Only 68 stands are available for residential development across 82ha, with environmentally responsible architectural guidelines. About 75% of the land has been donated to the park, which the developer believes will be its best custodian. Vacant erven are priced from R1.5m to R5m, whereas spec houses are priced from R5.5m.

FARM LIFESTYLE “Telecommuting is becoming more commonplace and people are realising that peace, fresh air, space and a slower pace are very covetable. Many recognise that a move to the countryside is a move in the right direction,” says Multi Spectrum Property CEO Riaan Roos. “Forty minutes out of Cape Town, Malmesbury presented an ideal opportunity to extend our expertise to the countryside with the launch of Klipfontein Farm Lifestyle Estate.” The first of its product releases is Olive Place, with 90 freestanding simplex homes in eight styles and two interior mood choices. Ranging in size from 119m2 to 140m2, they have two bedrooms and one bathroom or three bedrooms and two bathrooms each, as well as a patio and a single garage. Prices start from R1.35m and transfer duties do not apply. “Property prices in surrounding towns have skyrocketed during the past decade, and all objective indications are that Malmesbury is earmarked for the next wave of growth,” says Roos. “An investment in any part of Klipfontein Farm Lifestyle Estate is sure to be a winning one, as prices will escalate as the estate develops.”

Enjoy a carefree retirement lifestyle overlooking the majestic Noordhoek Valley

NEW PHASE NOW SELLING

Home to a community of active and dynamic retirees, Evergreen Noordhoek is one of our most picturesque villages. The first two phases are sold out and we are introducing brand new 2 bedroom houses with study priced from R2,450,000. Don’t lose out on your opportunity to join this group of like-minded friends.

The best years of your life are ahead of you.

YOU’RE INVITED TO OUR LAUNCH WEDNESDAY, 20 NOVEMBER 15H00 TO 17H00 EVERGREEN NOORDHOEK, GLENCAIRN EXPRESSWAY TO RESERVE A PLACE CALL SHARON ON 087 808 7000 OR EMAIL INFO@EVERGREENLIFESTYLE.CO.ZA

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU.

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11/6/2019 9:50:54 AM

Hom es sel l i n g f ro m R 1 820 000

FREEHOLD RETIREMENT PROPERTIES

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28 Years of Retirement Development Success

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HOMEFRONT PROPERTY NEWS

Luxury retirement resort for Century City

ll 375 apartments were sold ahead of completion at The Oasis Luxury Retirement Resort in Cape Town’s Century City, which launches this month. It is an indication of Century City’s potential as a soughtafter retirement address, where residents can enjoy modern comforts and access to nature.

The luxury development will rise along the water’s edge on the previous Ratanga Junction site. The lifestyle retirement offering comprises four residential towers forming a bookend to the southern boundary of the newly designed Ratanga Waterfront precinct. The Oasis has views facing north over the

reimagined Ratanga Park. At the core of the estate will be a lifestyle centre that includes a restaurant, a games room, a gym, a heated pool, a library and a media centre. The first phase, with construction starting in 2020, will consist of 62 luxury apartments ranging from 81m 2 to 165m 2 in oneto three-bedroom options.

More millennials renting in Soweto

oweto is home to about 40% of the total Johannesburg population. This, along with the fact that not many can afford to buy property in the current economic climate, is fuelling Soweto’s rental market. Khosi Sibiya and Phindi Mphahlele, the owners of Seeff’s Soweto branch, say millennials are the largest generation group residing in this area and also the group that rents property most often.

R14bn Harbour Arch precinct gets green light

he Amdec Group’s R14bn Harbour Arch mixed-use precinct was approved at the City of Cape Town’s Municipal Planning Tribunal meeting on October 24. This development occupies a strategic position at the convergence of major routes, with easy access to and from the N1 and N2.

The Amdec Group CEO James Wilson says the group is overjoyed at the decision. “Harbour Arch will create jobs and opportunities, boost investor confidence, bolster our city’s economy and benefit the Western Cape as a whole.” The precinct will be built on a 5.8ha site and

comprise six towers and 198,000m 2 of usable space. Two new hotels on the site will be operated by Marriott International. Work is set to get under way imminently. The project represents a massive private sector investment in the city, estimated to create at least 13,000 construction jobs.

Call of the wild

ush life is attracting city dwellers to invest in wildlife stands, homes and eco-estates. A high percentage of these estates border Big Five reserves or fall within the Greater Kruger Park. “There is huge interest in buying in this area, and generally a shortage of stock,” says Engela van Staden, area principal for Pam Golding Properties Hoedspruit in Limpopo. Buyers are a mix of local and international clients choosing holiday homes or primary residences

in the bush. Others are making career moves to work in Hoedspruit or work there remotely and commute. “Hoedspruit is one of the fastest growing towns in the country,” Van Staden says. “A number of investors let their properties as there is a strong demand for holiday rentals, this being the safari capital of SA.” The most popular options include the 684ha Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate, where stands of 0.5ha sell from R850,000. At the 930ha Raptors

View Wildlife Estate, 1ha stands are priced between R650,000 and R1.7m, depending on river frontage. In Modimolle in the Waterberg, well known for its bushveld terrain and game viewing, Pam Golding Properties area principal Lugene Annandale says purchasers at Elements Private Golf Reserve are mainly acquiring second homes for getaways. She says stands of about 3,500m 2 sell for between R250,000 and R750,000, while private homes fall in the R3m to R5m range.

According to them the rental market is growing exponentially. “Millennials are moving out of their parents’ homes and forming their own households. Like generations before them, they prefer to rent before they buy,” says Mphahlele. Many middle-aged buyers who started off in Soweto have since left to buy property elsewhere, but Seeff has spotted a trend of many returning. Sibiya and Mphahlele conclude that property

values in Soweto’s 37 suburbs are on the rise, and that the area is increasingly appealing to a middle-class market. “Completed developments, upgraded road infrastructure, the Rea Vaya bus system and commercial initiatives have all made Soweto a place people want to invest and live in. This was not necessarily the case two decades ago,” says Mphahlele. Rentals in Soweto start from about R2,500 a month for a one-bedroom and from R4,000 for a two bedroom apartment, R4,500 for a small home and from R7,000 for a large home with a double garage. The most affordable rentals are in Protea Glen, Bram Fischerville and Lufhereng, and the most expensive in Diepkoof, Dhlamini and Pimville. Pimville, near the Soweto campus of the University of Johannesburg, is in demand for student rentals, which range from R2,500 to R3,000 a month.

TOP 5 GOLF COURSE IN SOUTH AFRICA FOR 2018 & 2019 BY GOLF DIGEST MAGAZINE

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TH E A CRE S O N VAL DE V IE E S TAT E A selection of larger stands and the close proximity to the Pearl Valley Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course offer luxury country-style living on the picturesque Val de Vie Estate.

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